Empathy: Are We Born With This?

I was trading messages with Jen Stone on another topic today and the conversation changed to whether all humans are empaths but most have not learned how to turn it on yet? Or is this a genetic thing that only a chosen few have. I will say from personal experience it seems to run in my family. But what do the rest of you think?

I can't speak for the metaphysical community but I don't think everyone is born an Empath. I think everyone is born with the ability to show empathy and compassion. Being able to show empathy is the absolute to show compassion. But an Empath can actually feel the pain and emotions of others. I was born with 2 siblings and I'm the only Empath. I had two sons and one is surly an Empath and his little daughter is one as well.